A fall can be a painful experience, especially if it results in an injury. Luckily, such falls are rare, but during the rainy, winter months, there tends to be a spike in occurrence. Precipitation, such as rain, snow, and ice can turn parking lots, stairs, and sidewalks into hazards, especially if they have not been properly cleared. If you believe that your fall was caused by a slick sidewalk, you may find the following information to be extremely interesting.
Injuries Associated With Slips and Falls
Falls are more common than people think, and they often occur in public spaces, such as retail stores and parking lots. It is the responsibility of the store’s staff to keep heavily trafficked areas clear of any debris, snow, or ice, and place signs in appropriate locations if there is a risk of slipping. A serious fall can result in the following injuries:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Sprains
- Bruises and lacerations
- Trauma to the head or neck
When an individual sustains one of the injuries listed above, he or she will more than likely face a mountain of medical bills and expenses. If the fall results in a loss of income, the victim may have difficulty making ends meet. It is also common for victims to need long-term physical therapy after a fall.
Establishing Liability
If you are injured by a fall, you may not know who to hold responsible. As a matter of fact, many victims erroneously assume that they are responsible for their own injury, and there is no way to get compensation for their pain and suffering. This is a false assumption, and if you are injured on someone else’s property, they can be held liable in court. The following parties are frequently held responsible in slip and fall cases:
- Store owners
- Property management companies
- Government entities
- Landlords
- Private property owners
If you are injured on a city sidewalk, you may be able to hold the state, city, or federal government responsible for your injury. All of the parties listed above have an obligation to ensure that their walkways are safe for pedestrians, even after a rain or snow storm.
Speak With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If your slip or fall was caused by the negligence of one of the parties above, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries. Guster Law Firm, LLC understands the finer points of personal injury laws, and we would be pleased to review your case. Contact our office today at (205) 581-9777 to speak with an Alabama slip and fall attorney.